National League Previews

Kevin Mahon's side probably could have done without a trip to Richmond Park on the opening night of the league, but he does, at least, have close to a full squad for the trip south. Joe Harkin is out for a couple of months, while James Quigley is very doubtful due to a shoulder injury. However, after a good pre-season, there is a bit of confidence in the squad that they can make an impression this evening and have a good run in the league.

The champions, meanwhile, will get a chance to shake off the European outings by getting stuck into their attempt to win a third title in a row. Eddie Gormley and Stephen McGuinness are suspended while Paul Osam and Willie Burke are doubtful. Shane Harte, Dessie Byrne, Marcus Hallows and Donal Broughan are all in contention to make their league debuts for the club.

Last season: Derry City 0 St Patrick's 1, St Patrick's 1 Derry City 0, Derry City 0 St Patrick's Athletic 0.

Betting: Home: 8/13, Draw: 12/5, Away 4/1.

Referee: J Stacey (Athlone).

Drogheda Utd v Shamrock Rvrs

The longest transition period in the history of the game seems set to continue at Rovers, where another new ground will frustrate their dedicated support - but not nearly so much as the lack of a single notable signing.

Brian Byrne has been the main object of Damien Richardson's desire this week, but money remains a problem, and so it seems that the new boss will simply have to get more out of the squad he inherited.

Drogheda have no injury worries, and Martin Lawlor, as he is about everything these days, is confident that his youngsters can put one over on the Hoops.

Last season: Did not meet.

Betting: Home: 3/1, Draw: 9/4, Away 4/5.

Referee: P McKeon (Dublin).

Shelbourne v Galway United

There may be a couple of the new signings still laid up, but the Shelbourne side that takes the field this evening will certainly have a new look about it: Steve Williams, Gary Haylock and Carl Van Der Velden are expected to make their league debuts. Pat Fenlon is also back after missing the best part of last season.

Galway, like Drogheda, have been shopping in the bargain basement since securing promotion, and this evening will give manager Don O'Riordan an idea of how well his young squad can expect to cope with the step up.

Everyone, is fit, at least, and the squad apparently spent last night's final training session practising free kicks and other set pieces. Could this be a Keely thing?

Last season: Did not meet.

Betting: Home: 2/7, Draw: 7/2, Away 8/1.

Referee: H Byrne (Dublin).

Waterford United v Bohemians

The home side kick off the season with a full squad to choose from and that will make this game an interesting test of where they stand after a season they survived by tight defending and despite a terrible inability to score regularly.

New signing Gerard Stirling and Christian Hislop may make their league debuts, but of perhaps more critical importance will be which two from Barry Wood, Dominic Iorfa, Jason Kabia and Karl Gannon play up front.

Bohemians, on the other hand, have problems aplenty with no fewer than five players either out or doubtful. Maurice O'Driscoll (knee), Graham O'Hanlon (thigh), Robbie Brunton (calf tear), Mark Dempsey and Derek Swan (both hamstring) are all causing concern for Roddy Collins, although having brought in seven players over the summer there are still options for him to play about with.

Last season: Bohemians 0 Waterford 1, Waterford 0 Bohemians 0, Bohemians 0 Waterford 1.

Betting: Home: 13/8 Draw: 11/5, Away 11/8.

Referee: G Perry (Dublin).

First Division

Kilkenny City travel to Athlone who, having signed Warren Parkes, Conor Frawley and Eric Smith, are suddenly being tipped as a good outside bet for promotion.

Colin Fortune is also back from Dundalk and will probably go straight into the side.